Federal authorities have launched multiple investigations into Elon Musk and SpaceX over alleged failures to comply with national security reporting requirements, according to recent reports.
Three separate federal bodies - the Defense Department's Office of Inspector General, the Air Force, and the Pentagon's Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security - are reviewing whether Musk and his rocket company violated protocols designed to protect state secrets.
The reviews center on Musk's alleged failure to report details of meetings with foreign leaders and other required disclosures dating back to 2021. As SpaceX's CEO with top-secret clearance, Musk is required to self-report information about his travel, meetings, and other activities that could impact national security.
Internal SpaceX employees responsible for compliance have reportedly complained to defense authorities about lax reporting practices. Some workers felt unable to enforce protocols with Musk due to fears of losing their jobs.
The Air Force recently denied Musk high-level security access, citing potential risks. Several allied nations, including Israel, have expressed concerns about possible sharing of sensitive information.
The scrutiny comes as SpaceX's role in national security grows. The company has secured over $10 billion in federal contracts with the Pentagon and NASA between 2019-2023, launching classified satellites and providing encrypted communications through its Starshield program.
This isn't Musk's first security clearance controversy. A 2018 incident where he smoked marijuana on a live web show triggered a previous Pentagon review. His expanding business interests in China and reported communications with Russian officials have also raised concerns among U.S. officials.
While multiple federal agencies are investigating the reporting violations, none have accused Musk or SpaceX of actually disclosing classified material. The company's president declined to comment on the probes when asked by reporters.
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